When to Use Weight Machines

Everything has its place and time in the world of fitness… Okay, maybe not everything 🙂

But many things do.

Weight machines are a great example of that. Let me list a few good purposes:

They’re a great starting place for someone who is new to working out or coming back from a layoff.

They safely assess strength.

They’re safe to use for elderly and those rehabbing from injuries.

They’re great for circuit training (going from one exercise to another without rest).

They’re also great for quickly adding or removing weight plates for those who like to “pyramid” or perform other weight adding or taking away schemes.

While personal training, I often start new clients with weight machines. If their ability allows, I will typically move them past the machines into cables, free weights, kettlebells, and (my favorite!) bodyweight training.

The reason I move through this progression is to show the trainee the means to bring more functionality, real-world strength, flexibility, and balance into their workouts. Not to mention variety (the spice of training!), creativity and just plain ole fun!

Weight machines don’t get respect in some circles, but they have a time and place, and provide specific advantages in that time and place.

So don’t dis the machines!

To your health and fitness,

Patrick

Patrick Rooney is the Owner of GREEK PHYSIQUE™, LLC, a Personal Training company located in Middle Tennessee, which specializes in body sculpting for men and women. Patrick is certified through the National Association for Fitness Certification (NAFC). Patrick is available for Personal Training, Small Group Training, and Nutritional Consulting, both in person and via phone and Skype. He can be reached at info@greekphysique.online.